Our Story

Celebrating Nearly 50 Years of Music, Art, and Community in London, Ontario

 

The Home County Music & Art Festival is a beloved summer tradition and one of Canada’s longest-running folk festivals, held each July in beautiful Victoria Park in downtown London, Ontario. In 2025, we proudly celebrate our 49th year, continuing a rich legacy of folk, roots, and indie music, artisan crafts, and local culinary delights.

Founded in 1974 by a group of passionate community members, the festival was inspired by the idea of uniting the four counties surrounding London—Huron, Oxford, Middlesex, and Elgin—which gave rise to our name: H.O.M.E. County. Since then, Home County has grown into a premier cultural event in southwestern Ontario, welcoming thousands of attendees each year.

This admission-by-donation event brings together some of Canada’s best emerging and established musicians, featuring diverse performances that celebrate folk and roots in their many forms of expression, all in an accessible, inclusive setting.

Our Mission

 

The Home County Folk League enriches the cultural life of London and the surrounding region by presenting predominantly Canadian roots-oriented music, original arts and crafts, and community-focused events.

Our core values include:

  • Cultural enrichment through music and arts

  • Environmental sustainability and socially responsible choices

  • Community access, inclusivity, and engagement

  • Support for emerging artists and artisans

  • Transparency and fiscal responsibility

While the annual summer festival is the heart of our programming, we also organize year-round concerts and events that foster local music development, arts appreciation, and community togetherness.

Funding and Sustainability

 

We are proud to maintain our festival’s long-term sustainability through a diverse funding model:

  • Craft and food vendor fees

  • Government grants (local, provincial, and federal)

  • Merchandise and program sales

  • Audience donations and community sponsorships

  • Home County concerts and events throughout the year

Our responsible budgeting practices make sure all operational costs are met annually, with a portion allocated for future planning and administrative needs such as insurance and year-round office expenses.

Accessibility & Location

 

Home County is committed to accessibility. The festival grounds in Victoria Park are wheelchair accessible and just steps from Richmond Row, public transit, and downtown London hotels, making the event accessible and enjoyable for all ages and abilities.

Why the Name “Home County”?

 

The name "Home County" draws from the British term “home counties,” historically used to refer to the counties surrounding London, England. In our Canadian context, Home County represents Huron, Oxford, Middlesex, and Elgin—the counties surrounding London, Ontario. This name reflects our mission to celebrate and connect the artistic spirit of our regional community.

Meet Our Board of Directors

Our dedicated Board of Directors brings together a wealth of experience in music, arts, business, community leadership, and nonprofit governance, helping guide the strategic direction of the festival and ensure its continued success.

Akash Yadav

Director

Jennifer Heidenheim

Director

Anna Donaldson

Director

Allie Neeb

Director

Marcia Steele

Director

Darin Addison

Director

Gary Krakower

Director

Paul Stock

Director

Farrell Tremblay

Director

Join the Community

 

Whether you're a longtime attendee or discovering us for the first time, Home County Music & Art Festival offers something for everyone—live music, artisan crafts, delicious local food, and meaningful community connections.

We invite you to support the arts, celebrate Canadian music, and be part of London’s longest-running cultural event.